Lying off the western coast of Italy is a group of islands that, contrary to geographical proximity, are vastly diverse.
Whether you dream of total tranquility in a secluded Corsican cove or fancy sipping sundowners at the billionaires’ playground of Porto Cervo, there’s something for you.
The June-to-August period is peak yachting season for this group of stunning islands, and the docks are buzzing with activity as those in the know flock to the chicest spots around.
Here’s our run-down of the places not to miss on your next cruise in the region, whether you are there to see and be seen, or to skip town for some quiet time with your closest family and friends.
CORSICA
Corsica, combining the best of Italian and French culture, is known for its stunning scenery and abundance of incredible nature. It is also well equipped to accommodate superyachts, with a large number of world-class marinas and anchorages for a yacht charter to enjoy.
The Port of Bonifacio sits in the shadows of a stunning Medieval town and its towering citadel.
Once you’re docked in the well-equipped marina, head into the town and explore the cobblestone alleyways flanked by mysterious churches, ancient towers and a mish-mash of curious houses.
The Escalier du Roi d’Aragon is an impressive feat of ancient engineering; legend has it its 187 steps were built over the course of a single night by Aragonese troops during the siege of 1420.
Saint Florent, set in a stunning, tranquil bay can also accommodate superyachts and offers convenient access to the Patrimonio vineyard region of Corsica.
Those looking for experiences beyond the beautiful beaches of the island can enjoy the leading appellation of Corsican vineyards at one of the most stunning wine-growing villages in the whole of France. Make sure you visit the vineyard of Orenga de Gaffory and sample their Cuvée Des Gouverneurs.
For unbeatable beaches, head to the St Tropez of Corsica: Porto Vecchio. The 2km stretch of golden sand and bright blue water has earned Palombaggia its position as one of the top 10 beaches in Europe. This is an ideal spot for windsurfing, kayaking and kitesurfing.
SARDINIA
Packed with A-list stars, stunning beaches and exclusive spas, Sardinia is one of the places to be seen in the Mediterranean over the summer. With a well-established superyacht infrastructure capable of dealing with the biggest superyachts on the water today, Sardinia is brimming with stylish restaurants, legendary golf clubs, chic nightlife spots and luxury boutiques.
Each June, ‘Billionaires’ Playground’ Porto Cervo in the north of the island hosts the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, famed for kicking off the Mediterranean superyacht season in style and keeping the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda as the favoured destination of the international jet set. The Yacht Club is also home to one of the two Acqua di Parma spas in the world.
For those in search of history and culture, Sardinia does not disappoint. Alghero has an authentic historic centre with an abundance of medieval churches and a maze of alleyways teeming with shops selling local produce.
Capo Caccia’s Grotta di Nettuno is one of the many marine caves that dot the cliffs around Alghero, home to a stunning array of rock formations that can be explored by kayak.
The whole costal area of Porto Conte, with its backdrop of imposing mountains and protected beauty of its nature reserves, is perfect for exploring, both on the water and on shore.
ELBA
For family yacht charters, make sure you head over to peaceful and picturesque Elba. Also perfect for the older generation, this quaint island has no nightlife and an airport with limited direct flights, which ensures peace and tranquility for those that seek it.
Elba is dotted with an abundance of secluded beaches which back onto mountains and green forest ripe for exploring and best accessed by yacht. If escaping the crowds of the Mediterranean your main aim for a luxury yacht charter, then Acquavivetta is the perfect beach for you, with its rocky cliff face ensuring calm and solitude.
If you’re a watersports fanatic on the hunt for beachside restaurants and a bit of a buzz, Cavoli offers a more traditional beach experience.
Portoferraio is Elba’s largest town, which has a historical port able to accommodate yachts up to 65m. Explore the old town and make sure you visit the 16th Century Medici fortress that you will no doubt have spotted as you sailed into port.
A history lover’s visit to Portoferraio wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the house that Napoleon Bonaparte lived in during his 1814 exile, the Villa dei Mulini.
If wandering around local markets and sampling the regional produce is your idea of a day well spent, head to Capoliveri. Perched on the top of a hill with stunning views, it is famous for its street market and local eateries; make sure you pick up some local chestnut honey, ceramics and olive oil.
